At 38, Novak Djokovic has once again demonstrated that he remains capable of performing at the highest level of men’s tennis. The Serbian icon, still driven by an intense competitive spirit, continues to chase additional records before eventually closing this chapter of his professional life and moving on to whatever comes next. Although no longer the world number one, Djokovic has made it clear that his love for competition has not faded. As long as he feels the proper motivation and continues receiving unwavering support from his family, he intends to push forward and stay active on tour rather than begin winding down prematurely.
Despite being one of the oldest players inside the ATP’s elite group, Djokovic has been anything but complacent. This year, he added titles in Geneva and Athens, bringing his impressive career total to 101 trophies. He also reached the semifinals of all four Majors contested in 2025, proving that he still possesses the resilience and mental sharpness required to excel in the sport’s most demanding tournaments. Djokovic’s long-known ability to elevate his level at crucial moments has resurfaced throughout the season. Still, he fully understands the challenge presented by younger rivals such as Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, both of whom have shown the physical strength and tactical depth needed to trouble him in best-of-five-set encounters.
Right now, men’s tennis appears firmly centered around Alcaraz and Sinner, whose consistency and hunger have set a new standard on the tour. However, Djokovic has no intention of fading quietly into the background. Rather than accept a secondary role, he hopes to carve out another remarkable chapter in 2026, aiming to prove once more that he can still keep pace with the new generation. One notable decision was his choice to skip the Nitto ATP Finals in Turin for the second consecutive year. Though surprising to some, Djokovic made the call with the long-term view of preserving his body and ensuring full readiness both mentally and physically for the beginning of next season.
Djokovic’s focus has already shifted toward the Australian Open, a tournament that has defined major stretches of his career. His connection to Melbourne has always been special, as reflected in his record number of titles there. With the next edition set to start on January 18, he is preparing meticulously, convinced that a strong start in Australia could shape the entire tone of his 2026 campaign. Even at an age when most players have either retired or become inconsistent, Djokovic remains firmly inside the world’s top five, continuing to silence doubts about whether he can sustain his level.
The respect he commands among fellow players has not diminished either. During a recent interview with Radio MARCA Mallorca, Spanish player Jaume Munar—who enjoyed a significant rise throughout 2025—spoke openly about how Djokovic’s longevity inspires him. Munar acknowledged that he is unsure how long his own body will allow him to compete at peak form, but his long-term plans certainly include playing for many more years. For him, Djokovic exemplifies what is possible for an athlete willing to maintain discipline, adaptability, and a deep appreciation for the sport.
Munar highlighted that seeing someone like Djokovic, still pushing hard at 38, reinforces his belief that age need not be an obstacle. Although Djokovic no longer occupies the top ranking, Munar emphasized that the Serbian remains among the world’s best and continues to be “an absolute beast” on the court. For Munar and other rising talents, Djokovic stands as a benchmark, showing that commitment, smart scheduling, and a relentless desire to improve can keep a player competitive far beyond typical expectations.
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